Journal Review - Use of Prayer and Scripture in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Running Head: Use of Prayer and Scripture in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.

Use of Prayer and Scripture in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Latonya Phillips

Liberty University

COUN 506-D36

November 27, 2011

Summary

Prayer and scripture play a tremendously influential role in Christian Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). In this article, Tan described various techniques to use prayer and scriptures for inner healing in a counseling setting. The article also noted different divisions of behavioral therapy throughout history. Two components of mindfulness were discussed and served individual purposes. The first component has to do with “self-regulation of attention so that it is maintained on immediate experience…” (Tan, p.101), and the second component is based on applying a certain objective that is determined by one’s inquisitiveness. The article explained and conveyed eight fundamental characteristics for the Christian approach to CBT that can be utilized in various settings of counseling. Tan further discussed the appropriate and inappropriate use of prayer and scripture based upon Standard CBT or Christian CBT, and that both implicit and explicit integration are both imperative. In the Pre-Intervention phase, he offered a guideline to ascertain if prayer or scripture should be incorporated in the sessions. The guideline and process afforded helpful information that would assist the counselor with the decision.

The article provided seven stages for inner healing prayer. Although the steps were well out-lined and conveyed, it was noted that some situations require medication prior to the seven stages for inner healing prayer. Understanding the various types of prayer and being sensitive as to when to pray was a significant part of this article. Prayer is undoubtedly useful in any therapy, but especially in Christian CBT as it can be used in various times or points of the session. Lastly, an example of a Christian CBT session is discussed. The...